Flint Farmers Market 1412x605 photo by Doug Pike Hurley Medical Center
Afzal Ahson W

Ahson Afzal

MD

Program:

Pediatrics, Graduating Class of 2028

Originally from:

Karachi, Pakistan

Medical School:

  • Dow Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan (Medical School)
  • Dr Ruth KM Pfau Civil Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan (Training)

What brought you to Michigan?

I moved to the US in December 2021. I moved to Michigan because I have family here. I stayed because I love almost everything about Michigan. The people here are really friendly; there's also great diversity here with different people from different cultures living together in harmony, which I feel is great because they all have different experiences that I can learn from. I also love Michigan in the spring and in the fall. It is very scenic, and like I said before, I have family here too. The one thing I don't like about Michigan is the winters, but I guess nothing can be perfect!

Why did you choose your specialty?

I've always been drawn to pediatrics for a number of factors. My father is a pediatrician, and watching him care for his patients was a constant source of inspiration for me and was something that really inspired me to choose this speciality. I also like working in Peds because I feel the presence of children adds laughter and joy to the workplace and makes work more enjoyable. It also gives me a sense of purpose trying to make a small difference in people's lives by helping sick children get better, and so often in pediatrics you see children getting better so quickly, which feels really rewarding. Btw, my sister is also a second-year resident at Hurley, so we are a family of pediatricians :)

Family

My parents live in Pakistan, although they regularly visit. I am really grateful to them for the support they have provided me throughout my journey, through all my achievements and setbacks. My sister, Fatima, is a second-year resident at Hurley. My uncle and his family are in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and I am grateful to him for his support in my journey as well. I like to spend time with my cousins in Michigan when I'm not working.

When you're not working, what do you do for fun?

When I'm not working, I like to spend time with my family and friends, and I like to watch cricket, which is the most popular sport in Pakistan and very similar to baseball. I occasionally like to walk outdoors, and I enjoy nature photography. I LOVE food and I'm always willing to explore new cultures and try new cuisines. I also like mystery-related stuff whether that be a book or TV series or movie or video game.

What do you like most about Hurley?

What I love about Hurley is how friendly everyone is, from my coresidents to the attending. Everyone is super friendly and approachable, and it's like a big happy family.

What do you miss most about home?

I miss the food and the people. Karachi has the best food in the world.

Michigan's natural beauties